Synonyms for

Mistake

Verb / mɪˈsteɪk / Another word for mistake — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

an action or judgment that is wrong or incorrect

Synonyms & similar words

misapprehension slip error err misunderstanding fault misidentify error blunder fault gaffe flub slip-up oversight miscalculation misstep misjudgment misinterpretation misreading misapprehension confusion mix-up misunderstanding blooper boo-boo inaccuracy

Synonyms by register

Formal

error oversight blunder fallacy

Informal

slip-up goof boo-boo whoopsie

Literary

misstep lapse fault

Antonyms

success accuracy perfection correctness achievement triumph

Common collocations

  • make a mistake
  • avoid a mistake
  • correct a mistake
  • costly mistake
  • serious mistake
  • understandable mistake
  • honest mistake

Word family

noun mistake
verb mistake
adjective mistaken

Usage note

While 'mistake' can refer to any error, 'blunder' often implies a more serious or foolish error. 'Oversight' typically refers to an unintentional omission.

Example sentences

  1. I made a mistake on my spelling test and got a lower grade.
  2. My teacher made a mistake on the homework assignment and gave us the wrong page number.
  3. It's easy to mistake one twin for the other because they look so similar.
  4. I learned from my mistake and won't make the same error again.
  5. I accidentally put too much salt in the soup, it was a mistake.

Quotes

  • Mistakes are proof that you are trying.
  • It's not about making mistakes, it's about learning from them.
  • Mistakes are a part of being human. Appreciate your mistakes for what they are: precious life lessons that can only be learned the hard way.

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